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THE DEFENSE REPORT
DECEMBER 2023
I wish you and your loved ones a season filled with joy, peace, and warmth. Our heartfelt gratitude goes out to you for your trust and support throughout the year. May your holidays be merry, and the new year ahead bring prosperity and new opportunities. Happy Holidays! • Fiction “The Night Circus” by Erin Morgenstern A captivating tale of a mysterious, magical competition between two young illusionists. • Nonfiction “Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind” by Yuval Noah Harari A thought-provoking exploration of the history and impact of humans around the world. • Mystery/Thriller “The Silent Patient” by Alex Michaelides A psychological thriller that will keep you guessing until the very end. • Science Fiction “Dune” by Frank Herbert The classic that redefines epic science fiction in a desert world of intrigue and politics. • Fantasy “The Name of the Wind” by Patrick Rothfuss An epic journey where the power of words and magic come together in a riveting story. • Historical Fiction “All the Light We Cannot See” by Anthony Doerr A beautifully crafted novel set during World War II that creatively blends history and storytelling. • Biography “Steve Jobs” by Walter Isaacson
While this month is marked with twinkling holiday lights, mistletoe, and more goodies, snacks, and festive parties than you can count, it’s also Read a New Book Month! It’s an invitation to delve into the world of words, whether you seek escape, knowledge, adventure, or inspiration. As the days grow shorter and the temperatures colder, what better way to spend your time than curled up with a captivating new book? WHY READING MATTERS Reading isn’t just about flipping pages — it’s a journey, conversation, and ticket to countless worlds. Whether you’re an avid reader or just dipping your toes into the vast ocean of literature, there are many reasons why reading is important. • Knowledge and Information Books are like libraries of condensed wisdom, each one offering valuable insights, facts, and experiences. Whether you want to learn about history, science, or personal development, there’s a book for you. • Escape A good book can transport you to a whole new world, whether it’s a fantasy world, a different country, or another time. It’s an escape from the mundane into the extraordinary. • Mental Stimulation and Stress Reduction Reading keeps your mind engaged, improving memory and cognitive skills, and helps you relax and lower your stress levels. MY SUGGESTED NEW BOOKS TO DIVE INTO In honor of Read A New Book Month, here are some of my top recommendations from various genres. There’s something for every kind of reader! UNWRAP THE MAGIC OF READING THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
An in-depth look at the life of the visionary Apple co-founder that offers insights into innovation and creativity. –Jim Yeargan
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Almost everyone has stayed in an Airbnb or at least heard of the global short-term rental company. Since its inception in 2008, Airbnb has offered listings worldwide. The company has been providing budget options and, more recently, high-end lodging for every type of traveler. But the golden age of Airbnb may be over. U.S. cities have recently tightened restrictions on Airbnb hosts and anyone renting short-term accommodations. The reason is that Airbnb listings have caused local rent prices to skyrocket, especially in tourist destinations like New York City. According to Jorge González-Hermoso, a research associate at the Urban Institute, the Big Apple recently showed more Airbnb listings than actual apartments for rent. More tourists than established owners/renters were living in residential dwellings. AIRBNB REGULATIONS VARY. So, how are cities working toward preserving their communities? By implementing tighter restrictions that severely limit the types of short- term rentals allowed. New York City was one of the first to put what Airbnb called a “de facto ban” on these accommodations. In 2022, the city prohibited owners from renting out a unit for less than 30 days at a time without the host being present in the unit. THE FALL OF AIRBNB AND SHORT-TERM RENTALS WHAT DO THESE BANS MEAN FOR THE HOUSING MARKET?
Cities in California battling inaccessible housing have also released new regulations on Airbnb hosts. Even in San Francisco, where the company originated, hosts must be full-time residents and cannot rent out listings for more than 90 days a year. Dallas has been the most recent to establish regulations, asserting that all short-term rentals are banned from neighborhoods of single-family homes. Short-term rentals in communities with multifamily dwellings are still allowed but must pay the same taxes and fees as hotels. HOW WILL THE HOUSING MARKET BE AFFECTED? As the bans continue to roll out in cities worldwide, many hope this will bring more low-priced properties into the market. While plenty of talk about these changes may encourage real estate investors and homebuyers, the truth is that it might not make a difference. Experts say these short-term rental owners won’t simply start selling their property. Instead, they’ll work around the restrictions and likely transform listings into long-term rentals. Don’t get your hopes up! ENSURE A JOYOUS AND SAFE HOLIDAY SEASON: TIPS TO AVOID DUIS AND OTHER ACCIDENTS
KNOW YOUR LIMITS. It’s crucial to be aware of your alcohol tolerance and when to say “enough” to prevent injuries or irrational behavior. Even if you believe you’re “okay to drive,” relying on alternative transportation is safer if you’ve consumed any alcohol. Alcohol impairs your judgment, coordination, and reaction time, making accidents more likely. HOST RESPONSIBLY. If you’re hosting a holiday gathering, keep your guests’ safety in mind. Offer nonalcoholic beverage options and make sure they have a way to get home safely. Encourage designated drivers or arrange for group transportation if possible.
BE PATIENT AND ALERT ON THE ROAD. In addition to avoiding driving while impaired, it’s important to remain patient and alert while driving. The holiday season often brings inclement weather, increased traffic, and stressed or under the influence drivers. Allow extra time for travel, avoid distractions, and stay vigilant to ensure your safety. REMEMBER THE CONSEQUENCES. Lastly, remember the potential consequences of driving under the influence. DUI convictions can result in fines, license suspension, increased insurance rates, or even jail time. While we are always here to help, we never want to see anyone in these situations! Prevention is always the best way to ensure it doesn’t happen to you.
The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and quality time with family and friends. As the days grow shorter and the festivities abound, it’s essential to remember the importance of safe driving to ensure that these cherished times remain merry and bright. Here are some tips for staying safe on the road during the holiday season, avoiding DUIs, and ensuring a happy celebration for all. PLAN AHEAD. The first rule of safe driving during the holidays is to plan. If you know you’ll be attending a party or event where alcohol will be served, arrange for a designated driver, a ride-share service such as Uber or Lyft, or a taxi in advance. A plan ensures you won’t be tempted to drive under the influence.
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FACING DUI CHARGES AFTER A FAILED SOBRIETY TEST IN ATLANTA?
LAUGH IT OFF
WE CAN HELP!
Have you or a loved one been arrested and charged with a DUI in Atlanta due to a failed sobriety test? You’re likely worried about losing your driver’s license or facing jail time. But before you face these penalties, the prosecutor must successfully convict you. Challenging the field sobriety test may prevent them from doing so, and we can help. Our DUI lawyers are committed to helping clients fight their DUI charges. In Georgia, police officers use various field tests to check if a driver is impaired. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
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Failing to face the suspect away from the light of oncoming cars Forgetting to ask the suspect if they wear contact lenses Not asking the subject about existing medical conditions
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SKILLET CHICKEN POT PIE Inspired by TheModernProper.com
WALK AND TURN TEST The police officer asks the subject to walk in a straight line for nine heel-to-toe steps, pivot, and walk back in the other direction. COMMON CHALLENGES OR POLICE MISTAKES • The subject has a permanent physical disability or temporary injury • The subject has an ear infection • The subject has another medical condition that hinders balance ONE-LEG STAND TEST Police ask the subject to raise a foot about 6 inches off the ground with their hands to their side, look at their foot, and count until they are told to stop. COMMON CHALLENGES OR POLICE MISTAKES • The subject has a medical condition that hinders balance • The subject has a physical disability If you or a loved one has failed a field sobriety test, we will help you fight back! To learn more about our legal services, call us today at 404-467-1747 !
The perfect winter dinner, this chicken pot pie doesn’t disappoint!
(NHTSA) endorses only three standardized field sobriety tests:
1. The Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus Test (HGN Test) 2. The Walk and Turn Test 3. The One-Leg Stand Test Challenging these tests requires a thorough understanding of the tests and evidence, especially when the tests are not administered correctly. What do these tests entail, and how can they be challenged in court? HORIZONTAL GAZE NYSTAGMUS TEST (HGN TEST) Police ask the subject to follow an object about 12-15 inches away using only their eyes, and the officers watch for clues indicating intoxication. COMMON CHALLENGES OR POLICE MISTAKES • Not moving to a well‑lit area
INGREDIENTS
• 1/2 cup butter • 1 cup chopped onion • 1 cup sliced celery • 2 cups sliced carrots • 1/2 cup flour • 1 tsp salt • 1/2 tsp pepper • 1/2 tsp celery seed
• 1 tsp garlic powder • 1 cup milk • 2 cups chicken stock • 2 cups peas • 4 cups cooked chicken • 1 package frozen puff pastry, thawed • 1 egg
DIRECTIONS 1. Heat oven to 425 F. 2. In 12-inch cast-iron skillet over medium heat, melt butter, then add onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté for 5 minutes. 3. Add flour, salt, pepper, celery seed, and garlic powder to pan and stir. Sauté for 2 minutes. Slowly incorporate milk. 4. Add stock and bring to a simmer, whisking until mixture thickens. Add peas and chicken. 5. Roll out pastry sheet into 16-inch square on floured surface. Cut into 3-inch squares and place overlapping onto chicken mixture. 6. In a small bowl, whisk egg with 1 tbsp water. Brush egg over pastry and place in oven for 25 minutes or until golden and bubbling.
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Yeargan & Kert, LLC 3715 Northside Parkway Building 100 Suite 500 Atlanta, GA 30327 404-467-1747 AtlantaDUILawyer.com
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INSIDE
Read a New Book Month
Will the Airbnb Crackdown Lead to Affordable Homes?
Don’t Let a DUI Put a Damper on Your Holiday Celebrations
Don’t Let a Failed Sobriety Test Define Your Future!
Skillet Chicken Pot Pie
Discover the Most Enchanting Christmas Towns in the US
WOODSTOCK, VERMONT During Woodstock’s Wassail Weekend, you’ll find the town in peak Christmas mode, where you can experience parades, horse- drawn carriages, carolers, and the Billings Farm, a local favorite of the season. Stroll down Main Street to witness an idyllic Christmas spot filled with cozy small-town shops and restaurants. NORTH POLE, ALASKA If you ever feel like celebrating Christmas in the middle of summer, we know the perfect destination. North Pole, Alaska, offers Christmas decor and festivities year-round! Here, you can get up close and personal with Santa’s reindeer, meet the man himself, and enjoy the snow that covers the entire town. Be sure to check out their ice sculpture competition, which features artists from all over the world! Ready for the Christmas celebration of your dreams? Start planning your next holiday vacation at any of these destinations, and we promise your dreams will most definitely come true!
EXPLORE AMERICA’S MOST MAGICAL CHRISTMAS TOWNS FROM SNOWY VILLAGES TO YEAR-ROUND HOLIDAY CHEER
It may be too late for less spontaneous travelers to start planning a Christmas vacation. But that shouldn’t stop you from planning next year’s holiday journey! The good news is you don’t need to venture to another continent to find a Christmas wonderland. There are countless picture- perfect Christmas towns across the country. Make your next Christmas trip feel like a Hallmark movie at one of these festive towns!
it comes to the holidays. The town lights up and decorates almost 21 miles, where you can find reindeer farms, carolers, gingerbread competitions, and Christmas markets. Every step of the way offers an Instagram-worthy photo opportunity! SOLVANG, CALIFORNIA A slice of Denmark right in sunny California, Solvang brings endless holiday cheer, especially with their annual Julefest. Pronounced “Yule- fest,” this month-long festival takes place every December and features
LEAVENWORTH, WASHINGTON Many have dubbed Leavenworth the most Christmas-centric in the U.S., and it’s easy to see why. This Bavarian-style village experiences nearly 96 inches of snowfall every year, and they certainly don’t hold back when
picturesque events, including a ballerina-filled tree lighting ceremony, visits from Santa, culinary delights, traditional Danish celebrations, and much more!
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